A pleasure doing business
South Canterbury’s business community was out in force in August to celebrate the winners of the 2026 Business & Community Excellence Awards.
Leading businesses, community organisations and individuals were recognised at the 2026 Gallagher and South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce Business & Community Excellence Awards on Friday 14 August.
The evening celebrated excellence across multiple award categories, recognised recipients of special awards, including the crowd favourite People’s Choice Award, which attracted over 7500 public votes, and culminated in the presentation of the prestigious Supreme Award to fashion retailer Preen.
South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Wendy Smith said the awards reflected the strength, resilience and adaptability of the region’s business and community sectors.
“With a record 115 entries and an exceptionally strong field of finalists, the standard of entries was outstanding. These awards recognise the businesses, organisations and individuals whose innovation, leadership and commitment are making a significant contribution to South Canterbury’s economy and communities.”
Wendy says the awards showcase the depth of talent and leadership across South Canterbury.
“The Chamber’s 150th year in 2027 will be a significant milestone,” Wendy says. “We encourage businesses and community organisations to incorporate participation in the awards into their future planning and marketing strategies.”
2026 Business & Community Excellence Award Winners
Supreme Award: Preen
People’s Choice Award: Preen
People’s Choice Award Runner up: Equine Mementos
Timaru District Council Emerging Business Award: Level Electrical Timaru
Stuff | The Timaru Herald Retail & Wholesale Award: Preen
PrimePort Timaru Professional & Trade Services Award – Joint Winners: Vetta Group and Scooch Marketing & Design
Oceania Dairy Manufacturing, Construction & Transport Award: Canterbury Environmental Solutions
Fairlie Bakehouse Community Award: Bidwill Trust Hospital
Barker’s Hospitality & Tourism Award: Fairlie Bakehouse
2degrees Innovation Award: Vetta Group
Mauri Apprentice & Youth Development Award: Fairlie Bakehouse
Breen Supporting Local Award: Timaru Christmas Parade Trust
Environment Canterbury Sustainability & Environmental Award – Joint Winners: Canterbury Environmental Solutions Ltd and Zolve Environmental
Canterbury Environmental Solutions Workplace Safety Award: Todd Mudie Group
Presbyterian Support South Canterbury Good Sorts Award – Joint Winners: Deb Walker and Kevin Fahey
Forsyth Barr Special Commendation: Michael Barker
